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Feeling like a frazzled, coffee-reheating, “I’ve got this” mom who’s actually barely holding it together? You’re not alone. Welcome to Unlikely Housewives — the Christian mom podcast where two real women (and moms) trade people-pleasing for freedom, self-care for soul-care, and “the hustle” for a life of purpose.
Tracy and Tori are Christian moms who met after moving their families across the country and realized they were both faking it, lonely, and tired of comparison. We’re recovering people-pleasers and straight shooters who believe God calls the unlikely — and that you were made for more than just surviving motherhood, marriage, and the daily grind.
On this show, we talk real about:
- Christian parenting with purpose (and the mess that comes with it)
- Marriage, faith, and the hard conversations no one wants to have
- Women’s health, emotional baggage, and ditching cultural lies
- How to stop pretending and start living with hope as a Christian mom
If you’re a busy, isolated Christian mom looking for encouragement, laughter, and a reminder that you’re not alone — this is your tribe. Pull up those high-waisted yoga pants, tighten your top knot, reheat your coffee (again), and let’s rise together in faith, motherhood, and marriage.
Want to be a guest on Unlikely Housewives? Send Tori Shirah a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/unlikelyhousewives
Episodes
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
Tuesday Mar 05, 2024
Discover the heart and hustle of Anthony and Jessica Sherman, the dynamic duo whose love for competition and each other takes center stage in our latest episode. Get an insider's look into the life of an NFL couple as they recount their adventures from college romance at the University of Connecticut to the challenges and triumphs of professional sports with the Kansas City Chiefs. Their story is a thrilling ride through the peaks and valleys of love, faith, and football.
Join us as we unwrap the little moments that forge a lasting relationship, such as navigating gift-giving and decoding love languages. The Shermans' candid tales reveal how they keep their spark alive against the backdrop of the demanding world of the NFL. With laughter and sincerity, they invite us into their world, sharing the significance of meaningful milestones and the art of maintaining a deep connection amidst a bustling life.
The spirit of camaraderie and personal growth takes the spotlight as the Sherman’s share their journey from Arizona to Kansas City, illustrating the emotional rollercoaster of an NFL career move. They further highlight their path to finding a supportive faith community, offering hope and encouragement in these trying times. Their experiences showcase the transformative power of faith, community, and an enduring love that stands as a beacon for all listeners navigating their own life's challenges.
You can find Anthony’s podcast “Buddy Listen” here
Follow Anthony on X
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
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Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Balancing parental authority with affection can sometimes feel like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. In this episode, we're served a slice of reality on how setting boundaries with our kids doesn't have to be a tug-of-war. Join us as we welcome Kori Lauritsen, the founder of Conscious, not Crazy, who shares her personal evolution from a struggling parent to an advocate for intentional parenting. Drawing from her own transformation and insights from her experience at Bambini Creativi, Kori shares how we can replace power struggles with growth opportunities. We talk about fostering resilience and independence in our kids, while ensuring they feel emotionally supported. Take a cue from Kori’s tried-and-tested strategies, and get ready to find that perfect balance in parenting.
We swap stories with Kori, shedding light on how humor and respect evolve as our kids grow older, and how understanding their actions within a broader social context can lead to stronger emotional intelligence.
As we say a heartfelt thanks to Kori for her wisdom, we leave you with the thought of embracing change for our children's benefit. Don't forget to catch Kori’s upcoming parenting class and the launch of her new podcast for more on navigating the wonderfully wild world of raising kids.
You can connect with Kori on Instagram or Facebook and learn more about her podcast and classes at https://www.consciousnotcrazy.com/
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
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Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
Tuesday Feb 20, 2024
URGENT NEED FOR KIDNEY DONOR!
Please join us as we sit down with Kendra Tann, a mother of four who bravely opens up about their family’s need of a kidney donor to save their daughter’s life, however this isn’t the first time they have walked this path. When Kendra noticed her oldest daughter Sydney's high blood pressure and liver abnormalities, little did she know that it was the onset of a condition that would transform their life. The diagnosis of cranioectodermal dysplasia came as a shock and propelled them into a world where rare genetic disorders are not just medical terms but everyday realities. As Kendra shares her heartfelt story, you'll be moved by her strength and the journey towards Sydney's life-saving kidney transplant at the tender age of four. Her story is one of courage and resilience, bringing much-needed awareness to the realities families face when dealing with similar health battles.
The path from diagnosis to transplant is never walked alone. This episode is a tribute to the support systems and the profound connections that grow within the transplant community. Kendra opens up about the physical and emotional toll of becoming a living donor for her daughter, Sydney, a role that comes with its own set of post-surgery obstacles. Yet, amidst the talks of unexpected pregnancy and the balancing act of family life, there's an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the community that stands with them.
Just a few years after Sydney’s transplant, Kendra and her family are faced with the same diagnosis as they race to find another living donor for their youngest daughter, Olina. The journey Kendra and her family have been on and will continue to be, illuminates the process and support network for those considering the selfless act of organ donation. In this conversation, we aim to empower our listeners with information and avenues for support. Every act of engagement, from sharing our podcast to reaching out, strengthens the fabric of our community. Join us in this essential conversation as we share a family’s picture of faith & resilience, the importance of advocacy, and the undeniable power of sharing - one that might just save a child’s life.
Follow Olina's Journey On Instagram: @tannkidneykid
Live Donor Inquiries:
Living Donor Nurse Coordinators
Samantha Brenner 913-588-5049 sbrenner@kumc.edu
Brittney 913-588-0266
To read more about their story and donate financially:
*ALL donations made on this site to COTA for Olina go directly to the family to use for transplant related expenses. COTA is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Gifts to COTA in honor of Olina are tax deductible to the fullest extent by law. This includes but is not limited to medical costs, pharmacy costs, surgical costs and much more. Funds raised can even go towards any live donor expenses such as household utility costs, transplant travel expenses and more.
COTA also provides the family with a free website to share via a blog platform, this is coming soon!
Fundraise in your community for Olina:
Lisa Hoskins, a dear friend of the Tann family and a momma to four is the main volunteer contact for fundraising events through COTA in honor of Olina. Please contact Lisa Hoskins to inquire about setting up a fundraiser in your community to directly help the Tann's during this difficult season. Ideas: 5K fundraiser, a contest fundraiser, lead a matching gift drive or simply lead a neighborhood picnic fundraiser.
Lisa Hoskins: hoskinsLM@gmail.com
Helpful information:
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Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram!
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Listen in as we welcome the insightful J. Caleb Rogers, who takes us through his inspiring transformation from a number-crunching accountant to a sought-after mental coach for elite athletes and business professionals. We uncover the nuances of today's youth sports, discussing the mental toughness required to thrive in such a high-pressure environment and the complex decisions parents must navigate to support their children's athletic pursuits. Caleb's personal leap into a career driven by passion rather than security serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning our work with our true selves for a fulfilling life.
Join us as Caleb shares his unique coaching philosophy, one that's been honed outside the traditional paths, offering a fresh perspective on guiding athletes of all levels. We dissect his 'five-fight framework'—a holistic approach focusing on faith, focus, and composure—vital elements in the mental toolkit of any competitor. Whether it's discussing how self-belief can elevate performance or the significance of emotional control in high-stakes situations, Caleb's insights shed light on the practicalities of mental coaching and its impact on both young athletes and seasoned professionals.
Wrapping up this session, we talk about the delicate art of parenting, particularly through the lenses of education and athletics. From strategies to foster open communication to the importance of role modeling and letting go, we examine the influence parents have on their children's development. We also reflect on the transformative power of sports in building character and confidence, reminding listeners that while competitive activities can shape one's identity, they shouldn't wholly define it. Tune in for a conversation filled with actionable advice for parents and coaches alike, aiming to nurture the next generation with resilience and integrity.
Connect with Caleb:
info@mentalsensei.com
@mentalsensei on Instagram
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $600!
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Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram!
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
Tuesday Feb 06, 2024
Join us as we sit down with the courageous Libby Davis, who shares the most personal of narratives: the loss of her beloved son, Cooper, to a fentanyl overdose. As a nurse and now a determined advocate, Libby's voice carries the weight of both professional insight and a mother's profound grief. Her mission through the Cooper Davis Memorial Foundation and Keepin' Clean with Coop extends beyond mourning; she is working to raise awareness about the lethal risks of illicit fentanyl and counterfeit pills, which have become a silent epidemic stealing the lives of the unsuspecting.
The conversation is raw and deeply emotional as Libby bravely shares Cooper's series of events that led to his tragic overdose. Through her story, we're reminded that even those well-versed in healthcare are not immune to this crisis, and the necessity for honest conversations with our youth about the dangers of drug experimentation becomes ever more clear.
In the wake of Cooper's passing, Libby's advocacy work has taken on new urgency, particularly in the context of Kansas's recent legalization of fentanyl testing strips — a contentious yet potentially life-saving tool. As we examine the multifaceted fentanyl crisis, touching on border control and public health strategies like Narcan distribution, it becomes apparent that the fight against this epidemic is as complex as it is critical. This podcast not only honors Cooper's memory but also serves as an essential platform for educating families and communities on the steps we can take together to prevent further loss.
💙You can connect with Libby Davis and/or support their cause at: https://www.cooperdavismemorialfoundation.org/
💙Follow along on their journey of awareness and education at: https://www.facebook.com/keepincleanforcoop/
💙Look to see if there is a local DEA office near you: https://www.dea.gov/engage/operation-engage-kansascity
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $600!
Seven Weeks Coffee: sevenweekscoffee.com Use promo code: UNLIKELYHOUSEWIVES for 10% off your first order
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Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram!
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Tuesday Jan 30, 2024
Tuesday Jan 30, 2024
Listen in as we sit down with Bryan Sarff of True Wealth Company, who brings his financial expertise back to the show, this time addressing the nerve-wracking topic of college preparation for our older kids. Grappling with the costs of higher education is no small feat, and with Bryan’s guidance, we dissect the often-overlooked conversations between spouses about educational expectations, and the real-world tools available to estimate future college expenses. We discuss the benefits and drawbacks of different savings methods like 529 plans and brokerage accounts, helping us navigate these waters so our children can set sail towards success without capsizing our retirement plans.
Couples often find themselves at crossroads when it comes to aligning their financial goals, a situation made trickier with children's education in the mix. Sarff invites us to peel back the layers of our money mindsets and align our investment strategies with our life goals. Through a financial therapy session of sorts, we unravel the four levels of thinking that can propel couples from financial friction to fiscal synergy. We also tackle the bumpy paths of financial planning, providing insights on how to handle the education cost conversations every family needs to have.
As our children edge toward adulthood, the conversation shifts to the essential legal and financial scaffolding they require. We dissect the legal documents that become vital once the kids hit 18, like healthcare proxies and powers of attorney. Bryan also illuminates the often-overlooked benefits of starting out at a community college and reveals how recent changes in FAFSA can impact your financial aid strategy. Whether you're considering a 529 plan or a brokerage account, Bryan’s expertise sheds light on the path to creating a solid financial foundation for your family's educational aspirations.
💙 To learn more about Bryan, please connect with him on LinkedIn
💙 To contact Bryan and schedule time with him, their office at (913) 653-8783 or reach out to his assistant, Emily, at Emily@RetireWithTrue.com
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $600!
Seven Weeks Coffee: sevenweekscoffee.com Use promo code: UNLIKELYHOUSEWIVES for 10% off your first order
StoryButton use promo code FRIENDS10 to save 10%
Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram!
Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode!
Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Ever felt like your family could use a blueprint for success? It's not as distant of a dream as you might think. Mell, the heart and soul behind the Hashey Family and the Strong Family Project, joined us once again to impart her wisdom on crafting a thriving family atmosphere. With her background in social work and her personal experiences as a stay-at-home mom, she shares their seven pillars that can help any family become a cohesive unit—from setting core values to the power of family dinners and the strength found in routine.
As we settled into our conversation, the importance of family values in guiding day-to-day life became abundantly clear. Mell shared how establishing a set of values acts as a compass during conflicts and decisions, and we laughed over her stories that showed just how impactful a well-timed family dinner can be. It's not just about the food—it's about gratitude, connection, and the roles we each play in the dance of family life. Plus, Mell offered up the secret sauce for turning mundane 'chores' into 'contributions', which has the power to transform how our families work together.
Rounding off our chat, we uncovered the underestimated magic of family meetings. Think less boardroom, more living room—a space where schedules align, achievements are applauded, and each voice is valued. Through Mell's engaging stories, including how a simple handshake can skyrocket a child's confidence, we learned that the strength of a family's foundation can weather the storms of modern life. The Strong Family Project isn't just a guidebook or an online community—it's a starting point for families looking to redefine their journey, and Mell is leading the way with a heart full of dedication and hands ready to help. Come, be inspired to make your family's path one that's strong, connected, and full of joy.
💙 You can connect with Joe & Mell at:
https://strongfamilyproject.com/
💙 Listen to their podcast at: Strong Family Project Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/strong-family-project/id1677418124
💙 Connect with the Hashey’s on Instagram:
@officialstrongfamilyco
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $600!
Seven Weeks Coffee: sevenweekscoffee.com Use promo code: UNLIKELYHOUSEWIVES for 10% off your first order
StoryButton use promo code FRIENDS10 to save 10%
Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram!
Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode!
Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Join us as we sit down with Joe and Mel Hashey, who share their inspiring story of how 2020 transformed their entire family. The Hashey’s take us through their journey of uprooting their lives, moving 2,000 miles away to an unfamiliar town, and how they turned their struggles into a mission to assist other families. Through the creation of the Strong Family Co framework, they've discovered the keys to stress-free family leadership, built on the bedrock of solid values. Joe's candid recount of shifting gears from a high school teacher to a business owner, and Mel's adaptation to homeschooling amidst a global crisis, offer powerful insights into the resilience and adaptability of families facing adversity.
Listen in as we explore how the Hashey’s successfully integrated business strategies into their family life, using corporate-style core values as a compass for decision-making and growth. They enlighten us with stories of how their children have used these principles to forge stronger friendships and how family meetings can evolve into sessions of collective problem-solving and support. The Hashey’s exemplify the transformative potential of running a family like a high-functioning team, where leadership skills are not just taught but lived, preparing every member for the challenges of the outside world.
Finally, tune in to our heartfelt discussion on the fundamental role of family values in shaping the future. The Hashey’s emphasize the power of clarity and purpose, whether it's through setting family values, enhancing communication, or instilling accountability in our children. Discover how intentional parenting, informed by a consistent set of core values, can break multi-generational patterns and pave the way for a legacy of success. Whether you're a parent, spouse, or individual seeking to build a strong foundation for your family, the insights from the Hashey family are sure to inspire and guide you towards a more structured and value-driven life.
💙 You can connect with Joe & Mel at:
https://strongfamilyproject.com/
💙 Listen to their podcast at: Strong Family Project Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/strong-family-project/id1677418124
💙 Connect with the Hashey’s on Instagram:
@officialstrongfamilyco
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $600!
Seven Weeks Coffee: sevenweekscoffee.com Use promo code: UNLIKELYHOUSEWIVES for 10% off your first order
StoryButton use promo code FRIENDS10 to save 10%
Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram!
Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode!
Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com
Tuesday Jan 09, 2024
Tuesday Jan 09, 2024
Laughing through the quirks of wedded bliss, we clink glasses with our endearing husbands, Andrew and Chris, ready to pull back the curtain on the lighter side of love and family life. As we revisit old recording spots—from the master closet to our current dining room digs—we indulge in a lively anniversary gift debate and the familial banter that only comes from years of togetherness. But it's not all giggles and jabs; we also unwrap the profound growth and heart lessons learned from another lap around the sun, navigating the seas of marriage and parenting with a candidness that's sure to resonate.
Turning to the more introspective side, our conversation shifts to the growth and challenges of the past year, examining the delicate dance of balance between personal aspirations and family priorities. The pandemic's shadow looms, reshaping our perspectives; the simplicity of board game nights and the complexity of children stretching their wings blend into a rich tapestry of shared experiences. We muse over future uncertainties—from teenage driving tests to major sporting events—while savoring the present moments that make our shared journey so rewarding.
Wrapping up with our solid foundations, we reflect on the evolving dynamics of faith and family in the post-COVID landscape. We're candid about the need for a personal relationship with Christ, independent of external influences, and the ripple effect this has on our roles as spouses and parents. As we look to the year ahead, we set intentions for spiritual growth and leading by example, all the while keeping our trademark humor close at hand. Join us for a session that's equal parts laughter, reflection, and heartfelt connection.
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Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
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Tuesday Dec 19, 2023
Tuesday Dec 19, 2023
Curious how to help your kids become financially savvy? It's no secret that financial knowledge is power and in today's episode, we're joined by the insightful financial planner, Bryan Sarff, to give you a roadmap. Drawing from his wealth of experience in the financial world, Bryan offers practical advice on how to navigate this often daunting subject with ease, from introducing concepts like earning, saving, investing and debt to more advanced topics like taxes and retirement planning.
Bryan Sarff is the founder and CEO of True Wealth & Company and has been serving clients’ financial needs since 2003. His services cover all areas of the wealth management process, including business succession planning, investment strategies, business value acceleration, retirement planning, legacy planning, and insurance planning. Bryan acts as a personal wealth manager for successful business owners and thrifty millionaires who want to ‘Make Work Optional’. When working with clients, his highest priority is to help them “achieve financial independence and economic freedom” so they can spend more time doing what they love.
Our conversation didn't just revolve around traditional money management. With the world becoming increasingly digital, the concept of money is evolving and it's crucial that we adapt our financial education to reflect that. From digital transactions to the concept of virtual cash, we explored how to ensure our kids grow up understanding the value of money in an increasingly cashless age.
During our conversation, we found ourselves discussing one of the most challenging concepts for kids to grasp - debt. To aid in this, we explored a range of online resources and even AI that can help explain it in a digestible way. We also touched on the importance of teaching children how to find information for themselves, fostering independence and curiosity. Bryan also shared his insights on retirement planning, underlining the importance of having a plan and managing debt. So, join us on this journey where we cover financial literacy, offering valuable tips and insights to help prepare your kids for a financially secure future.
To learn more about Bryan, please connect with him on LinkedIn.
To contact Bryan and schedule time with him, their office at (913) 653-8783 or reach out to his assistant, Emily, at Emily@RetireWithTrue.com.
Sunlighten Sauna Sponsor: https://get.sunlighten.com/unlikely Save up to $600!
Join our community on Facebook and connect with us on Instagram!
Write an apple review and YOUR review could be read on our next episode!
Hosted by Tori Shirah and Tracy Stine
Contact us ➡️ UnlikelyJoCo@gmail.com